This Sunday’s Game vs Sunshine Coast – Cancelled

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Due to the tragic passing of Sunshine Coast player James Ackerman on Monday our opposition the Sunshine Coast Falcons have understandably decided to withdraw from with this weekend’s scheduled match in Townsville.

Ackerman, 25, was playing for the Falcons against the Norths Devils at Bishop Park on Saturday when he was seriously injured. He was treated immediately by the on-duty doctor and qualified first-aid staff, before being transported to hospital. He passed away on Monday in hospital.

Ackerman played 54 games of Intrust Super Cup for both the Sunshine Coast Falcons and the Redcliffe Dolphins. The Townsville & Districts Mendi Blackhawks would like to extend their deepest condolences to James’ family, friends, club and team-mates past and present as this difficult time.

Statement from the QRL: Queensland Rugby League is fully supportive of this decision. Moving the fixture to a later date was one of several options considered by the League. However, this option was ruled out due to the travel requirements and the schedule as it stands in the second half of the year. A ruling on the allocation of competition points will be made in due course. The incomplete Round 15 match between the Falcons and Devils last weekend has been declared a draw.

Anyone who holds a ticket to this Round 16 Match – Townsville Mendi Blackhawks vs Sunshine Coast Falcons, Sunday 28th June 2015 2pm – please bring your ticket to Reception of the Leagues Club for a refund of the ticket price.You will be required to produce this specific Round 16 ticket in order to be entitled to a refund.

A trust fund has been set up in order to support James’ wife Saraa and his two children Oliver and Milly. We encourage our fans to donate to this fund using the details below.